Bayrou Revamps Pau Electoral List with New Faces and Strategic Alliances
François Bayrou, the current mayor of Pau and former Prime Minister, has unveiled a significantly refreshed list of candidates for the upcoming election. With 25 new names compared to the 2020 roster, the list aims for both renewal and broader representation of the city’s diverse interests.
A Wave of Newcomers
Bayrou emphasized that this is a “very renewed list with 47% new names,” designed to bring about “a major renewal and rejuvenation.” Key additions include Sabine Poillion, an agricultural engineer specializing in renewable energy, who takes the second position on the list. Jean-Marc Grussaute, a vintner and former Section Paloise rugby player, is placed fifth. Nadia Grammontin, a senior healthcare executive, and Sulaymân Khalef, a veteran para-athlete, also feature prominently among the new entrants.
Bayrou distinguished his list from those of political parties, describing it as “a team that represents the city in its vibrant forces” and “a list of the city, founded on all the beating hearts of the city.”
Experienced Figures Remain
Despite the influx of new faces, the list retains key figures from Bayrou’s current administration. Clarisse Johnson Le Loher, Jean Lacoste, Véronique Lipsos-Sallenave, and Kenny Bertonazzi, all current adjoints, are strategically positioned for re-election. Parliamentarians Josy Poueyto and Laurence Farreng also hold prominent spots.
Bridging Political Divides
The list demonstrates a willingness to incorporate individuals from across the political spectrum. Éric Saubatte, a leader from Les Républicains (LR), is included, alongside former opponents such as Laurent Jubier, Patrice Bartoloméo, and David Torres. Thomas Huerga, previously a socialist advisor, also appears on the list.
Notable Departures
The list also marks the departure of long-standing allies, including Jean-Louis Peres, who has supported Bayrou since 1989, as well as Michel Capéran and Jean-Loup Fricker. Several other elected officials from the 2014 term, including Alain Vaujany and Pauline Roy-Lahore, are also absent. Alexandre Perez, who had distanced himself from the majority, is not included.
List Demographics
The average age of the “Nous aimons Pau” list is approximately 52 years vintage. The youngest candidate is Jean-Baptiste Sennes, at 23 years old. Four candidates have been with Bayrou since the 2008 campaign: Josy Poueyto, Patricia Wolfs, Régis Laurand, and Jean Lacoste. Three candidates previously appeared on opposing lists in 2020 before joining Bayrou’s team.
Did you know?
Four candidates – Josy Poueyto, Patricia Wolfs, Régis Laurand, and Jean Lacoste – have been on Bayrou’s electoral list since 2008.
FAQ
Q: What percentage of the list is new?
A: 47% of the candidates are new compared to the 2020 list.
Q: Who is the youngest candidate on the list?
A: Jean-Baptiste Sennes, at 23 years old.
Q: Does the list include candidates from other political parties?
A: Yes, the list includes Éric Saubatte from Les Républicains and several former opponents of François Bayrou.
Q: Who are some of the notable departures from the list?
A: Jean-Louis Peres, Michel Capéran, and Jean-Loup Fricker will not be running on the list.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to the placement of candidates on the list, as higher positions generally indicate a stronger chance of election.
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